About 200 more volunteers still are needed for the annual Iowa Games.

The Iowa Games were established in 1987 and have grown tremendously in the past 22 years, creating a greater and greater need for volunteer labor, said Jim Hallihan, executive director of the Iowa Games.

There are about 3,100 volunteers who help throughout the Iowa Games process, said Jan WIlliams, service coordinator for the Ames Convention and Visitors Bureau.

The ACVB is in charge of arranging the 500 volunteers needed for the weekend of events, Williams said.

“These volunteers can do anything from check-in, score keeper, timer, events marker or general assistant,” she said.

Hallihan said that most volunteers are needed on the final day of the games, which kick off July 16 and end on July 18.

People are needed to help with the “volunteer intensive events,” such as basketball competitions, three-on-three basketball games and swimming events, Hallihan said.

Hallihan said the permanent Iowa Games staff is comprised of only five people, which makes volunteers very valuable resources.

“The more volunteers we get, the better,” he said.

Hallihan said the Iowa Games organizers especially like to see Iowa State students volunteering.

“College age is a good age to start volunteering. The earlier you learn to give back, the better person you become,” Hallihan said.

Hallihan said volunteering gives people a feeling of satisfaction.

“Everyone goes away feeling better about themselves when they volunteer,” he said.

Hallihan, a former ISU men’s basketball assistant coach, said he has been impressed with the hard work, time and enthusiasm volunteers have put into the Iowa Games.

“When I was coaching at Iowa State University, everyone was getting paid, and they complained about what they were paid and how hard they had to work. Volunteers don’t get paid, love it and work overtime,” Hallihan said.

People interested in volunteering for the Iowa Games can stop by 213 Duff Ave. to pick up an application or call 232-4032.